Media release 10 May 2004
EMIRATES TO OPEN LUXURIOUS DEDICATED LOUNGES
Emirates, the world's fastest growing intercontinental airline, has unveiled plans to introduce dedicated airport
lounges in several destinations across its network, catering to its First and Business class passengers.
Auckland, where a lounge is currently shared, will be among the destinations included in the dedicated lounge
programme.
Over the next two years, Emirates will invest more than US$13.6 million to develop its own lounges, providing those
customers with luxurious sanctuaries to rest and refresh during their travels. Emirates' First and Business class
passengers travelling outside of Dubai currently access lounge services provided by partner airlines, or the local
airport operator.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of the Emirates Group, said: "Part of Emirates' success lies in our
ability to continually innovate, to provide a quality product and superior service. Starting our own dedicated airport
lounges is another step in that direction ? allowing us to better cater to the travel needs of our passengers."
"In the next two years alone, we are looking to launch about a dozen lounges in different locations around the world.
Several of the lounges are currently in development, with the first facility, in Brisbane, expected to be ready this
month," he added.
Simply named "The Emirates Lounge", each facility is designed to first-class specifications and fittings. Wearing the
same stamp of exclusivity and luxury, the new lounges will be modelled after Emirates' multi award-winning First Class
Lounge in Dubai, which has garnered accolades such as the Airline Lounge of the Year, Skytrax ? The World's Best Airline
Lounges Awards 2003.
Said Dale Griffith, Emirates' Senior Vice President for Airport Services: "The comfort and needs of our passengers are
always at the top of our considerations in planning the lounges. Actual layout and facilities will vary from location to
location, but passengers can expect the same high standards of service that they are accustomed to at our home base in
Dubai airport."
Signature touches consistent throughout all Emirates lounges worldwide include: designer showers, cream leather
couches, Internet access facilities, a distinctive water feature, and 24-hour refreshments with full bar service and a
gourmet selection of both hot and cold food. Emirates' trademark, attentive service will be available round-the-clock
from dedicated staff.
The Emirates Lounges will cater to Emirates' First and Business Class passengers, as well as Gold and Silver members of
Skywards, the frequent flyer programme of Emirates.
ENDS